Parbat Expands Wheat Breeding Program to Boost Seed Production

Parbat. Starting this year, wheat cultivation for breeding seeds has been expanded in Parbat.

Research has begun with the cultivation of foundation wheat seeds in Phalebas Municipality-6, Devisthan Chaibaskuriya. The Agriculture Development Office, Parbat, stated that wheat has been planted on approximately five hectares of land for seed production.

With the support of the National Wheat Research Program and the Agriculture Development Office, eight additional varieties are being researched alongside local strains. The office stated that this initiative is part of the 'Seed Production for Self-Reliance' program. Information Officer Sobita Subedi noted that research is ongoing on varieties including Gautam, Bheriganga, Himganga, and Zinc.

Through the local Shakti Agriculture and Livestock Farm, 20 farmers are cultivating breeding wheat seeds in a single area. It is reported that these varieties have shown better production compared to others.

Farmers in the region have turned to winter wheat cultivation due to its relative ease and access to irrigation. Last year, research conducted by the National Wheat Research Program, Bhairahawa, on eight different varieties to identify suitable strains for the hilly region was successful. Local farmer Ramesh Chapagain mentioned that breeding seed cultivation was undertaken this year as well, citing favorable climate conditions.

He stated that having agricultural technicians visit their fields to conduct research makes it easier for farmers to cultivate wheat in the future. He added that awareness regarding which crops are suitable for specific geographies to maximize production and income has increased.

He noted that while interest in wheat farming had been declining due to rising temperatures, climate change, lack of winter rain, and irrigation shortages, the center's identification and recommendation of specific varieties are expected to boost interest. Last year, out of eight breeding seeds researched, four have been selected for recommendation so far.

Following the research, preparations are underway to recommend wheat varieties named NL 1179, NL 1488, NL 1486, and NL 1450 for cultivation. These varieties are reported to perform well at altitudes up to 800 meters above sea level.